Bhutan releases: Frequency Band Plan in 26GHz for Bhutan – BHUTAN

TATT Regulatory Authority Approval

Bhutan

07-03-2024

BICMA open online licensing system

As Bhutan experiences surging demands for mobile broadband services, the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) unveiled a pivotal move. On 20th February 2024, BICMA published the 26GHz Band Plan, allocating the n258 band of 24.3 – 27.5 GHz to IMT Services in Bhutan.
 
Facing challenges of Quality of Service (QoS) degradation amidst limited land space, telecom operators seek solutions. The deployment of mid 3.5GHz (n78) for 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) reflects current efforts, with plans for further spectrum expansion to bolster 5G services.
 
Globally, regulators prioritize spectrum allocation in mid 3.5GHz, 700MHz, and mmWave bands, signaling opportunities for Bhutan’s mobile broadband sector. With the n258 band identified as conducive for 5G deployment, meticulous planning of band frequency, assignment methods, and limitations is paramount.
 
This strategic move aims to fortify mobile broadband capacity, ensuring enhanced QoS and meeting escalating subscriber needs in Bhutan’s dynamic telecom landscape.
 

Tanzania Implements Mandatory Labeling Requirement for Electronic Communications Equipment – TANZANIA

TCRA Communication Regulatory Authority

Tanzania

07-03-2024

Tanzania Implements Mandatory Labeling Requirement for Electronic Communications Equipment

In a move to bolster regulatory standards in the electronic communications sector, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TRCA) announced the implementation of a labeling requirement. This development stems from the publication of new guidelines on Type Approval in November 2023.
 
Under the updated guidelines, all electronic communications equipment seeking Type Approval in Tanzania must comply with mandatory labeling regulations. Specific conditions outlining the labeling requirements can be found within pages 12 to 14 of the official document released by the TRCA.
 
The TRCA emphasizes the importance of adherence to these labeling standards, as they play a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and compliance of electronic communications equipment entering the Tanzanian market. Additionally, the appearance and specifications of the required label are detailed on page 14 of the attached document.
 
This initiative underscores Tanzania’s commitment to fostering a regulatory environment that prioritizes consumer safety, quality assurance, and adherence to established standards within the electronic communications industry.
 

Vietnam MIC Introduces Expanded Regulations for Mobile User Equipment Radio Access – QCVN 117:2023/BTTTT – VIETNAM

Vietnam - Type Approval Regulatory news

Vietnam

07-03-2024

Vietnam MIC Introduces Expanded Regulations for Mobile User Equipment Radio Access - QCVN 117:2023/BTTTT

The Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) in Vietnam has issued Circular 20/2023/TT-BTTTT, along with the corresponding National Technical Regulation (QCVN 117:2023/BTTTT), focusing on GSM, W-CDMA, E-UTRA Land Mobile User Equipment – Radio Access.
 
The newly introduced QCVN 117:2023/BTTTT regulation expands upon the existing technical framework (QCVN 117:2020/BTTTT) by incorporating additional LTE frequency bands, namely:
 
  1. LTE B28: 703 MHz – 733 MHz / 758 MHz – 788 MHz
  2. LTE B40: 2300 MHz – 2400 MHz
  3. LTE B41: 2500 MHz – 2690 MHz
VoLTE labeling: Mobile phones must be labeled with “VoLTE” to comply with regulations 43/2017/NĐ-CP and 18/2022/TT-BKHCN.
 
These updates are slated to come into effect from February 15, 2024, marking a significant advancement in regulatory standards. Moreover, they will supersede and replace QCVN 117:2020/BTTTT starting July 1, 2024.

Vietnam MIC Implements New Regulations for Short Range Device Radio Equipment – VIETNAM

Vietnam - Type Approval Regulatory news

Vietnam

07-03-2024

Vietnam MIC Implements New Regulations for Short Range Device Radio Equipment

The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has issued a new circular, QCVN 55: 2023/BTTTT, pertaining to Short Range Device (SRD) radio equipment operating within the frequency range of 9 kHz to 25 MHz.
 
This updated standard, QCVN 55:2023/BTTTT, supersedes the previous QCVN 55:2011/BTTTT standard and is slated to become mandatory by July 1, 2024.
 
Certificates obtained under the old standard will no longer be valid after July 1, 2024. To maintain compliance and continue importing, retesting in accordance with the new standard is imperative, and certificates must be updated accordingly.
 
The official document for QCVN 55:2023/BTTTT

Bocra Introduces Official Type Approval Exemptions – BOTSWANA

Botswana - Type Approval Regulatory news

Botswana

07-03-2024

BOCRA Introduces Official Type Approval Exemptions

“Bocra,” the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority, has announced its intention to provide official Type Approval Exemptions. This means that existing exemptions can undergo a re-application process to obtain formal exemption certificates.
 
It’s important to note that the re-application for official exemptions is voluntary. Meanwhile, existing exemptions will continue to remain valid.
 
These exemptions will be granted following the standard Type Approval Procedure.
The following equipment is not subject to approval:
 
  1. Personal computing devices such as desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and IoT devices equipped with WiFi and Bluetooth transceivers.
  2. Receiving equipment including FM/MW/SW radios, televisions, satellite decoders, and set-top boxes.
  3. Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (RTTE) embedded in vehicles, such as Bluetooth, navigation systems, remote sensors, and car keys. However, it’s essential to ensure that such RTTE operates within designated frequency bands.
  4. Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) terminals marked with “ITU.”

New Guidelines for the use of the IFT seal – MEXICO

Mexico Regulatory approval

Mexico

30-01-2024

New Guidelines for the use of the IFT seal

The Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) issued the non-binding opinion on the Regulatory Impact Analysis of the “Guidelines for the use of the IFT seal on approved products, equipment, devices or apparatus intended for telecommunications or broadcasting.”
 
These guidelines have provisions and specifications for using a seal with a graphic element to easily identify certified products through marking or labeling.
 
The IFT Seal is part of the IFT’s graphic identity and must be printed in 100% positive black or 100% negative black, while respecting protection areas and minimum printing dimensions. Homologation Certificate holders, subsidiaries, and importers, where applicable, must use the IFT Seal while adhering to the established specifications.
 
A transition period of 180 days has been set from the date of publication in the official journal. During this time, the regulations will only apply to products certified after the effective date. Products that have previously obtained a Homologation Certificate can retain their existing IFT marking.
 
 

Trinidad and Tobago Telecommunications Authority Implements Updated Regulations for Equipment Certification – Trinidad and Tobago

TATT Regulatory Authority Approval

Trinidad and Tobago

30-01-2024

Trinidad and Tobago Telecommunications Authority Implements Updated Regulations for Equipment Certification

The Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) has recently introduced updated regulations regarding the certification of telecommunications equipment. According to the new rules outlined in the “Equipment Standardisation and Certification Framework for the Telecommunications and Broadcasting Sectors,” certified equipment must undergo recertification once the term of the previously certified device has expired.

Under the revised regulations, equipment certificates will now have a validity period of five years. However, if the operating parameters of the devices remain unchanged, the recertification process will be expedited, ensuring a smoother and more efficient procedure.

Stakeholders and industry participants are encouraged to review the details of the updated framework, which can be found in the official document released by TATT here.

Qatar and Korea Sign MOU for Development of Radio Spectrum Management – Qatar

Qatar - Type Approval Regulatory news

Qatar

30-01-2024

Qatar and Korea Sign MOU for Development of Radio Spectrum Management

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) of Qatar and the Central Radio Management Service (CRMS) of the Korean Ministry of Science and ICT have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the development of radio spectrum management. The MOU reflects the two parties’ recognition of the significance of cooperation for the efficient use of radio frequencies and the development of quality radio communication services. The MOU also covers cooperation in radio spectrum management field according to the changes of radio spectrum environment, joint response to radio spectrum monitoring methods including satellite radio monitoring, and exchange education and training experience to promote human resources in the radio spectrum management field. 

Official Announcement

NTRA granted TE a 15-year license for 5G services; Tests followed. – EGYPT

Egypt - Type Approval Regulatory news

Egypt

30-01-2024

NTRA granted TE a 15-year license for 5G services; Tests followed.

Telecom Egypt (TE) is set to conduct experimental 5G operations in five key locations to assess service quality, CEO Mohamed Nasr announced. The move follows the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority’s approval of TE’s 15-year license for 5G services, valued at USD 150 million. Nasr expects the financial impact to reflect in TE’s results by the end of 2024. As part of Egypt’s privatization initiative, TE aims to generate USD 5 billion in revenue by offering 35 state-owned companies to strategic investors by June 2024. The 5G trials position TE as a key player in Egypt’s evolving telecommunications landscape.

Azerbaijan AZAK Suspends 2 CBs for Unauthorized Certificate Issuance – AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan-Type Approval Regulatory news

Azerbaijan

30-01-2024

Azerbaijan AZAK Suspends 2 CBs for Unauthorized Certificate Issuance

The Azerbaijan Accreditation Center (AZAK) has suspended two Conformity Assessment Bodies (CBs), “AZTRUSTSERT” LLC and “AZ-QUALITY CERT” LLC, which are no longer authorized to issue certificates.
You can find the updated Accreditation Base list here.